Bolted
/ˈboʊltɪd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo fasten or secure something with a bolt.
/ˈboʊltɪd/
To fasten securely with a bolt.
The door was bolted shut.
💡 Simply: To attach something firmly using a bolt.
More Examples
He bolted the gate to the fence.
How It's Used
"The carpenter bolted the two pieces of wood together."
"He bolted the engine to the chassis."
To run away suddenly and rapidly.
/ˈboʊltɪd/
To run or move rapidly.
The thief bolted when he saw the police.
💡 Simply: To run quickly and unexpectedly.
More Examples
She bolted down the stairs.
How It's Used
"The horse bolted from the starting gate."
"He bolted out the door."
From Middle English *bolten*, past participle of *bolten* "to fasten with a bolt," from Old English *bolta* "bolt," of Germanic origin; related to Old High German *bolzo*.
Historically, 'bolted' was primarily used in its literal sense of fastening with a bolt. The figurative use to describe rapid movement developed later.
Memory tip
Think of a bolt securing something tightly.